Recognizing Attitude Changes

In this precrisis stage, changes in attitude and behavior may be very subtle at first. For example, your loved one may feel "cured" from the illness and believe that medication and doctor appointments are no longer necessary.

Watch for changes in habits, mood, attitudes, and behavior. The person may eat or sleep irregularly, smoke more than usual, or skip doses of medication. These are all clues that your family member may be getting into trouble. This is a good time to alert the doctor so you can take action to avoid a crisis situation.

Here are some examples of attitude changes:

Missing scheduled appointments with mental health professionals
Complaining about having to take medication
Saying medication isn't needed or isn't working; doesn't refill prescription
Skipping or forgetting to take doses of medicine
Voicing new complaints about side effects even though medications have not been changed
Doing less than usual during the day
Making too many changes at once (eg, moving into an apartment and starting a job at the same time)
Consuming more caffeine-containing foods and beverages than usual
Smoking more than usual
Talking about or taking diet pills
Spending time with people who drink or use street drugs

Your loved one is vulnerable during this time, but a crisis situation can be avoided with help. You may want to keep track of your loved one's attitude and behavior changes on a daily basis — that way you'll be able to describe these changes to the doctor, case manager or other healthcare professional involved in his or her treatment.

Planning Ahead with Mental Health Professionals

This is the time to speak with mental health professionals about what to do if symptoms begin to worsen. Confidentiality policies may be a stumbling block for families seeking help with a loved one who is headed toward a crisis situation. Discuss the confidentiality policy with mental health professionals during a time of peace. Find out what you are able to do, and set up a plan should a crisis or emergency situation occur.